A former Hollyoaks actor tragically lost his life following a private meeting in Manchester in January 2025, a court has heard. Michael Barron, 38, had arranged to meet 28-year-old Josh Baxter after the two connected online. What began as a consensual encounter later resulted in circumstances that led to Mr. Barron’s death. The case was brought before Minshull Crown Court, where prosecutors outlined the sequence of events that unfolded that evening.
According to evidence presented during the trial, the two men met at Baxter’s flat and initially spoke casually before engaging in private activity. The court heard that during the encounter, Mr. Barron was restrained and pressure was applied to his neck. Medical experts later confirmed that restricted breathing caused a lack of oxygen, leading to cardiac arrest. Prosecutors argued that while elements of the meeting were consensual, the actions taken created a serious and foreseeable risk to Mr. Barron’s safety. Baxter was subsequently charged and stood trial.
Jurors were told that instead of immediately contacting emergency services when Mr. Barron became unresponsive, Baxter conducted online searches related to medical symptoms and potential legal consequences. He later called emergency services and attempted CPR following instructions from operators. During the trial, the defense maintained that Baxter never intended to cause harm and described his reaction afterward as one of shock and panic. The jury ultimately convicted him of inflicting grievous bodily harm and intentional suffocation. He was acquitted of manslaughter but sentenced to four years in prison.
During sentencing, the judge emphasized the serious risks associated with dangerous physical acts and noted that consent does not override the responsibility to prevent harm. The court also highlighted concerns about the defendant’s understanding of safety and accountability. Following the verdict, detectives expressed hope that the conclusion of the trial would provide some measure of closure for Mr. Barron’s loved ones. In a statement, his family described him as charismatic, kind, and full of life, remembering his ability to uplift others with humor and warmth. They said that while no sentence can replace their loss, they are grateful for the support they have received and are now beginning the difficult process of moving forward.